How to fix
OneDrive error code 0x8004e4bf
on Windows

Hi, I'm running Windows 11 and recently started having issues with OneDrive. Every time I try to sign in, I get a message saying that OneDrive can’t connect, with error code 0x8004e4bf. I’ve restarted my PC and checked my internet connection (which is working fine), but nothing seems to help. I haven't changed anything in my Microsoft account, and this just started happening after a recent Windows update.

OneDrive is a built-in Windows feature that enables users to store files in sync and accessible from different devices. With easy syncing to the cloud, OneDrive makes accessing documents, photos, and other files on the go easy. OneDrive occasionally experiences technical issues that cause it not to operate normally. One such issue is the OneDrive error code 0x8004e4bf that prevents the application from accessing or syncing properly.

0x8004e4bf error will primarily happen when OneDrive cannot sign in or connect to Microsoft servers. OneDrive can't connect message will quite frequently pop up, as well as the red X on the system tray icon. This could happen following a Windows update, account setting adjustment, or due to periodic service disruption.

There are some reasons why the 0x8004e4bf error arises. If your internet connection is unstable, then rejoining a more stable or stronger network may be able to help. If the OneDrive settings were corrupted when a new update was being installed, then the application can be reset and its functionality restored.

If your Microsoft account has not synced properly, then logging out and logging in will generally resolve the problem. Earlier versions of OneDrive can also lead to the OneDrive error code 0x8004e4bf, and it can be fixed by updating the application. Finally, corrupted system files could be the reason for the problems with OneDrive, and the system may require scanning.

Manual solutions for every scenario are given below. For those who want a quicker way to fix the 0x8004e4bf error and other Windows problems, using a comprehensive [d1] repair tool is strongly recommended.

Fix 1. Check the internet connection

A weak or unstable network can prevent OneDrive from reaching the cloud, and switching to a stronger connection might restore access to your files.

• Disconnect from your current Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
• Connect to a different network or reboot your router for a fresh signal.
• Open OneDrive and attempt to sign in.
• If successful, troubleshoot your original network’s stability.
• Type Troubleshoot into the Windows search bar and press Enter.
• Next, on the right side of the window, select Additional troubleshooters/Other troubleshooters.
• Scroll down to locate the Network and Internet option and click on it.
• Click on Run the troubleshooter/Run, and allow the process to complete.

Fix 2. Enable TLS protocols

Outdated security protocols can block OneDrive’s communication, and activating modern TLS versions ensures the app can connect securely.

• Type Internet Options in Windows search and press Enter.
• Go to the Advanced tab.
• Scroll down to the Security section.
• Find the following sections: Use SSL 3.0, Use TLS 1.1, Use TLS 1.2, and Use TLS 1.3.
• Check or uncheck the boxes next to these protocols based on your troubleshooting needs. For security, it’s recommended to keep only TLS 1.2 and 1.3 enabled.
• Click Apply and then OK.
• Restart your computer.

Fix 3. Reset Windows socket

Network glitches can disrupt OneDrive’s ability to sync, and resetting the Windows Socket refreshes the system’s internet connectivity framework.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• Click Yes when UAC asks for permission.
• Type in the following command and press Enter:
  netsh winsock reset
• Reboot your computer.

Fix 4. Update OneDrive

An outdated app version might struggle with server compatibility, and installing the latest update ensures alignment with current standards.

• Open the OneDrive app on your PC.
• Click on the Help & Settings icon in the notification area.
• Select Settings.
• In the settings menu, go to the About tab.
• Click on the OneDrive version - this should open the browser and the release notes from Microsoft.
• If the latest version listed there matches with the one on your app, you are up to date.
• If the version does not match, simply click on Download OneDrive for Windows, follow the installation instructions, and it will install the latest version on your device.

Fix 5. Clear credentials

An outdated app version might struggle with server compatibility, and installing the latest update ensures alignment with current standards.

• Close OneDrive.
• Type Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter.
• Go to User Accounts > Credential Manager.
• Go to the Windows Credentials section.
• Scroll down to the Generic Credentials section.
• Remove all OneDrive credentials as required.

Fix 6. Reset OneDrive

Corrupted app data can hinder OneDrive’s performance, and resetting it clears all temporary issues for a fresh start.

• Press Win + R on your keyboard.
• When the Run window opens, copy and paste the following text into it:
  %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset
  (Note: you might get an error here. In that case, use %programfiles(x86)%\Microsoft OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset or C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft OneDrive\onedrive.exe /reset instead)
• Press Enter or click OK.
• After this command is executed, the app should be reset, and OneDrive should open.
• If it doesn't, wait a few minutes, then open the Run window again and use the following command:
  %localappdata%\Microsoft\OneDrive\onedrive.exe
• Press Enter.

Fix 7. Reinstall OneDrive

A damaged installation can cause persistent problems, and a full reinstall replaces faulty files with a clean version.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• When User Account Control shows up, click Yes.
• Type in the following and press Enter to terminate any leftover OneDrive processes:
  taskkill /f /im OneDrive.exe
• If you are using 64-bit Windows, use the following command and hit Enter:
  %SystemRoot%\SysWOW64\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall
• If you are using 32-bit Windows, use the following command and hit Enter:
  %SystemRoot%\System32\OneDriveSetup.exe /uninstall
• After that, restart your PC.
• Reinstall OneDrive from the official Microsoft website.